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Materials Characterization Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

AGR LLC

Geotechnical Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

... material characterization, and the application of data science to advanced engineering analytics and predictive research modeling. This role is ideal for early‑career engineers with strong academic ...

AGR LLC

Geotechnical Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

... material characterization, and the application of data science to advanced engineering analytics and predictive research modeling. This role is ideal for early‑career engineers with strong academic ...

Prestige Brands

Analytical Scientist I

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

Perform analytical methods evaluation and validation to demonstrate product or material characterization suitability. * Tests new products or existing products to provide marketing and quality ...

Leidos

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

Apply geological expertise to projects involving borehole investigations, soil characterization ... Knowledge of weapons effects and the response of geologic materials to blast, shock, and other ...

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All JobsMaterials Characterization JobsMaterials Characterization Jobs in Virginia

Materials Characterization information

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$22

$31

How much do materials characterization jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for materials characterization in Virginia is $22.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a materials characterization?

A Materials Characterization job involves analyzing and evaluating the structure, composition, and properties of materials to understand their performance and potential applications. Professionals in this field use techniques such as microscopy, spectroscopy, and diffraction to study materials at the atomic, microscopic, and macroscopic levels. They work in industries like aerospace, electronics, manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals to ensure material quality and optimize product performance. This role often requires expertise in materials science, engineering, and analytical techniques.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a materials characterization professional?

Professionals in Materials Characterization spend much of their day preparing specimens, operating advanced analytical instruments, and interpreting the resulting data. They may also collaborate with engineers, researchers, or product teams to provide insights that inform material selection, quality control, or product development. Documentation of experimental methods and results, maintaining laboratory equipment, and adhering to safety protocols are key aspects of the role. Additionally, there is often an opportunity to contribute to technical reports, presentations, and cross-functional meetings, making teamwork and clear communication especially important.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in materials characterization?

To excel in Materials Characterization, candidates typically need a background in materials science, chemistry, or physics, along with experience in analytical techniques such as electron microscopy and spectroscopy. Familiarity with instruments like SEM, TEM, XRD, and mastery of data analysis software are essential, and certifications in laboratory safety are often preferred. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are important soft skills in this position. These competencies are critical for accurate material analysis, troubleshooting experimental issues, and presenting findings to interdisciplinary teams.

What are popular job titles related to Materials Characterization jobs in Virginia?

For Materials Characterization jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Materials Characterization jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Materials Characterization jobs in Virginia are:

Materials Characterization jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Characterization job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,785 per year, or $22 per hour.

15691-Engineer Material Process 3@ Dulles - Bldg 1-45101 Warp Dr (VA31)

PROLIM Global Corporation

Dulles, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Description
At Northrop Grumman, we have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way.
Northrop Grumman is looking for a Materials Engineer to support the Reliability Analysis Lab (RAL) in Dulles, Virginia.
Responsibilities:
• Perform failure analysis of materials/hardware to determine the root cause of failure and identify failure modes.
• Perform materials analysis and characterization.
• Perform weld joint analysis.
• Perform materials testing per industry standard specifications and internal requirements.
• Perform inspection of printed wiring board for defects and anomalies.
• Use analytical tools and equipment to inspect and analyze parts, materials, and flight hardware.
Basic Qualifications for Systems Engineer - Integration and Test:
• Bachelor's degree in Materials Engineering. Bachelor's degree is Physics with some background in materials is acceptable.
• Knowledge and experience with lab equipment, such as, scanning electron microscope, optical microscope, spectroscopy, x-ray equipment.
Preferred Qualifications for Systems Engineer - Integration and Test:
• Familiarity with materials, such as, aluminum, titanium, steel.
• Familiarity with processes, such as, rolling, forging, heat treatment, welding, corrosion.
• Familiarity with industry standard documents, e.g., ASTM, ASM, NASA, MIL.

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